The cry of the prophet sounds even more critical today as our “civilized” world falls deeper into anger, violence and chaos. Trying to end our troubles without going to the root of the problem only makes it worse as we try to cover up our struggles and ease our pain with superficial distractions, says Jeremiah.

We must look deeper to solve the problems in ourselves and our society, and the prophet points to the way out. “Stand at the crossroads and look. Seek the ancient paths, where is the good way” (Jer. 6:13-16).

These “ancient or eternal (Hebrew olam) paths” are living in the ways that God has established for every man, woman and nation. These “paths” define who we are, what it means to be human, and why we are here in the world. These are the foundational, eternal truths that must be uncovered, and which form who we are and what we will do in life. In other words, our Identity and our Destiny.

Identity asks: “Who am I?” This is what...